A uniform terminology on bioinvasions: a chimera or an operative tool?

A consensual set of definitions regarding bioinvasions is essential in order to facilitate discourse among the science, policy and management communities dealing with the issue. Considering both the mode of entry and the extent of the impact of an alien species into a new environment, a set of key terms is proposed as an operative tool for marine scientists. (C) 2004 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.